Hà Nội itinerary — 2 days
Day 1 — Hà Nội
7 stops · ≈ 7 h 5 minAn architectural centerpiece of Hanoi's French Quarter, built between 1901 and 1911 by colonial architects modeled after the Palais Garnier in Paris. The neoclassical landmark features sweeping Corinthian columns, wrought-iron balconies, slate mansard domes, and a striking yellow facade. Its opulent auditorium, seating nearly 600 guests beneath crystal chandeliers, hosts classical symphony concerts, traditional opera, and ballet.
Lying in the historical heart of Hanoi, this picturesque freshwater lake is revered as the spiritual soul of the Vietnamese capital. Its name translates to Lake of the Restored Sword, honoring the 15th-century legend of Emperor Le Loi and the divine Golden Turtle. An iconic Turtle Tower stands on an islet in the center, while the graceful scarlet Huc Bridge leads across calm waters to Ngoc Son Temple, surrounded by shaded walking paths.
Authentic Bat Trang brings the centuries-old pottery heritage of the famous Bat Trang craft village directly into Hanoi's Old Quarter. The boutique showcases finely handcrafted ceramics, from delicate celadon vases and ornate tea sets to hand-painted tableware and ornamental figurines. It offers travellers the perfect chance to discover traditional Vietnamese ceramic craftsmanship and buy genuine artisan souvenirs in the city center.
A lively multi-storey market in Hanoi's historic Old Quarter on Phố Hàng Da, seamlessly blending modern retail with a traditional bazaar vibe. The lower levels buzz with fresh produce, regional spices, blooming flowers, and sizzling local street food stalls. Upstairs, the stalls are renowned for vintage and second-hand fashion, leather crafts, artisanal ceramics, and fine Vietnamese teas. It is a fantastic stop for casual bargaining.
One of Hanoi's most revered landmarks, founded in 1070 by Emperor Ly Thanh Tong to honor Confucius. Six years later, it became home to Quoc Tu Giam, Vietnam's first national university, which educated mandarins for centuries. The peaceful sanctuary features five traditional courtyards, the iconic Khue Van Cac pavilion, and 82 stone steles resting on tortoise shells, recognized as a UNESCO Memory of the World.
Hanoi's oldest Buddhist pagoda, founded in the 6th century during the reign of Emperor Ly Nam De on a small islet in West Lake. Its centrepiece is a striking 15-metre, 11-storey red stupa holding precious white stone statues of Amitabha Buddha in every niche. Nearby stands a sacred bodhi tree grown from a cutting taken from the original tree in Bodh Gaya under which the Buddha attained enlightenment.
A historic steel cantilever bridge spanning the Red River, constructed between 1899 and 1902 by the French firm Daydé & Pillé during colonial rule. Having endured relentless bombardments during the Vietnam War, it remains an enduring symbol of Hanoi's resilience. Today, single-track trains, motorbikes, and pedestrians share its weathered rusted spans, offering picturesque views over riverside banana orchards at sunset.
Reserve
7If you have time left — worth it too.
Chợ Đêm Hàng Đào – Đồng Xuân is a popular night market in central Hanoi.
Lake in a residential area featuring a monument marking the capture of John McCain in 1967.
Nestled in the vibrant Old Quarter, The Corn Restaurant - Old Quarter View offers a delightful escape from the bustling streets below. This hidden gem is perched on the top floor, providing diners with stunning views of the city as they savor a diverse menu filled with deliciously presented dishes. The ambiance strikes a perfect balance between posh and cozy, making it an ideal spot for both intimate dinners and casual meals. Guests rave about the cleanliness and attentive service that enhance their dining experience.
Perched on the 65th floor of Lotte Center Hanoi, this observation deck offers 360-degree views of Vietnam's capital from 272 metres high. Its signature highlight is the thrilling Skywalk: cantilevered glass-bottom boxes extending outward from the facade, giving visitors the sensation of floating above the bustling streets. From here you can admire West Lake, historic city quarters, and the winding Red River.
A temple on a narrow peninsula reaching into Hanoi's West Lake, dedicated to Lieu Hanh, one of the Four Immortals of Vietnamese folk religion. The 18th-century buildings were rebuilt after a flood, and the grounds hold several red-columned pavilions facing the water. The temple is busiest at the start of the lunar month, when worshippers come to pray for luck and to watch the sunset over the lake.
Hanoi's largest lake, covering more than 500 hectares, has long been ringed by pagodas, villas and coffee houses. On its south-eastern shore rises Tran Quoc, Vietnam's oldest pagoda, founded in the 6th century, its red tower standing on stilts above the water. The Xuan Dieu embankment is now the city's trendiest cafe quarter, and sunsets over the lake are considered the finest in Hanoi.
Thong Nhat Park is one of Hanoi's largest public green spaces, established in 1958 around the picturesque Bay Mau Lake in Hai Ba Trung District. Its name means "Reunification", reflecting historical aspirations for national unity. The park features tree-lined walking avenues, swan paddleboats on the water, flower gardens, and open plazas where locals practice morning tai chi, jog, rollerblade, and unwind away from urban bustle.
- Always carry cash, as some places may not accept credit cards.
- Negotiate prices with taxi drivers if not using a ride-hailing app.
- Be cautious when crossing streets; traffic can be chaotic.
- Try local street food for authentic experiences.
- Stay hydrated and use sunscreen to cope with the tropical climate.